Mikel Merino Signs Permanent Five-Year Deal With Newcastle United

Mikel Merino joined Newcastle United on what initially was a loan move from Borussia Dortmund, as the Spain U21 international did not have enough space to feature regularly on the Bundesliga giants. However, the loan deal has come to an end.

And no, Merino is not coming back to Dortmund. Instead, the Spaniard has signed a five-year contract to stay with the Premier League side on a permanent basis. The Magpies have now exercised an option to turn the move into a permanent transfer with immediate effect. And there is no question this was an intelligent move from Newcastle.

Merino has looked quite impressive during his short stint with Newcastle. He has featured in seven Premier League matches for The Magpies and has started the last six, so it is clear Rafa Benitez trusts him. And if we consider he is only 21 years old, then he has lots of time to improve and continue his growth.

The new deal will keep Merino at St. James’ Park until 2022, and he said he was “really happy to be here” when asked about the deal on NUFC TV, the club’s official TV channel.

Merino has secured a regular place in Newcastle’s starting lineup early in the season. If he manages to hold it down during the remainder of the campaign, then there is no question he will easily become a great investment for the club. The potential is clearly there.